Florida State looked to stay hot Tuesday night at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center as they hosted the No. 15 Virginia Cavaliers men’s basketball. The Seminoles entered the matchup riding a three-game winning streak, with victories over California, Stanford, and Notre Dame. With a win, Florida State would not only have moved to .500 on the season, but it would also have marked their first victory against a ranked opponent since November 21, 2023, when they defeated No. 18 Colorado 77–71 in overtime.
FSU vs Virginia Basketball
In the first half against the Cavaliers, the Seminoles held their own, finishing the half tied 32–32. Florida State was led by guard Robert McCray V, who scored 13 points, and guard Lajae Jones, who added 15 points. For Virginia, early contributions came from guard Sam Lewis with seven points, center Johann Grünloh with five, and forward Thijs De Ridder, who also chipped in five points.
32-32
The second half picked up right where the first left off. McCray opened the scoring with a deep 26-foot step-back three-pointer, setting the tone for another tightly contested stretch. Florida State appeared to seize control midway through the half, building a 54–45 lead with 8:22 remaining. The Seminoles had momentum and an opportunity to secure a statement win in Luke Loucks’ first year as head coach.
However, the Cavaliers proved too much to handle. Florida State went cold, shooting just 29 percent from the field (18-of-62) and 18 percent from three-point range (6-of-33). To add to the frustration, Virginia closed the game on an 11–1 run over the final 5:53, escaping with a 61–58 victory.
For Virginia, Jacari White led the team with 19 points, Thijs De Ridder grabbed nine rebounds, and Chance Mallory dished out five assists. For Florida State, Lajae Jones finished with 21 points and 13 rebounds, while Robert McCray V recorded four assists.
With the win, Virginia secured its fifth consecutive victory and moved into third place in the Atlantic Coast Conference standings. The Cavaliers will next face Ohio State in Nashville. Florida State, now 12th in the ACC standings, suffered its first loss since January 24 against SMU. The Seminoles will look to bounce back on the road against Virginia Tech in Blacksburg.
After the game, members of the media had the opportunity to attend the postgame press conferences. Virginia head coach Ryan Odom opened with his thoughts on the close contest.
Virginia Head Coach Ryan Odum
“They had us on our heels pretty much the entire game. We turned the ball over too much, but it was one of those gritty games where we were able to hang in there and find a way at the end,” Odom said.
When asked whether he was comfortable playing at Florida State’s pace, Odom responded, “I think we’re used to playing fast. Our press was pretty much nonexistent this game, and they do a good job. They play some lineups that are a little bit different than what we’re used to facing.”
FSU Head Coach Luke Loucks
Florida State head coach Luke Loucks also reflected on the future of his program. “We are still building something really good here, and that takes time. That takes learning how to win close games,” Loucks said.
He emphasized the importance of winning at Florida State, adding, “This town respects winning, and when you win, fans show up. And when they show up, this is one of the best atmospheres in college basketball.”
Loucks reiterated his belief in the program’s culture, stating that fans should expect championships and that Florida State is built on a championship standard. While the future of the season remains uncertain, one thing is clear: Luke Loucks is fully committed to the Florida State program and its fan base.
Detectives from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (H.I.D.T.A.) Task Force have significantly disrupted the trafficking of fentanyl and methamphetamine into the county during two special operations that resulted in many arrests and the seizure of drugs and weapons.
Operation Bloodline and Operation Flatlineresulted in the arrests of 51 suspects, and the seizure of 78 pounds of methamphetamine, 14.55 pounds of fentanyl, 13 firearms, and approximately $20,000 in United States currency.
In August of 2025, the detectives began investigating Jemarion Young of Winter Haven, who was known to be a Florida gang leader. Young was found to be an associate of Spencer Leonard, Jr. of Bartow.
Young, Leonard, and several others were identified and known to be a part of a drug trafficking organization that was operating in Polk, Hillsborough, Osceola, Orange, Volusia, and Pasco counties.
The detectives teamed up with Statewide Prosecutors and the FDLE.
The investigation received authorization to use resources from the State Assistance for Fentanyl Eradication (SAFE) grant, as well as approval for wiretaps and surveillance of the members of the drug trafficking organization.
Undercover detectives infiltrated the group and participated in transactions in which they were able to acquire methamphetamine and fentanyl.
A supply-line of methamphetamine was discovered from California to Polk County, and on December 15, 2025, detectives intercepted a delivery of ten pounds of methamphetamine.
Critical fentanyl overdose
On December 23, 2025, 42-year old Angela Valenta was found unresponsive in a Lake Wales hotel room, and she remains hospitalized with minimal brain activity. The day before Ms. Valenta was found, she received fentanyl from William Benjamin Newton, Jr., who has been linked to other ongoing overdose death investigations. The investigation of Newton’s involvement with Ms. Valenta began Operation Flatline, and resulted in the arrest of Newton, and the seizure of 6.1 pounds of fentanyl and 1.4 pounds of cocaine. Ultimately, William Benjamin Newton, Jr. could face first degree murder charges, if Ms. Valenta passes away due to overdosing on fentanyl supplied by Newton.
The following agencies worked with the PCSO during Operation Bloodline: Florida Attorney General, Office of Statewide Prosecution, State Attorney’s Office 10th Judicial Circuit, Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), Florida Highway Patrol, Florida Department of Corrections, United States Marshal, Auburndale Police Department, Winter Park Police Department, Central Florida High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, and the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office.
Assisting the PCSO in Operation Flatline were: Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), State Attorney’s Office 10th Judicial Circuit, Auburndale Police Department, and Central Florida High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force.
“Traffickers of methamphetamine and fentanyl are literally murdering people and tearing apart families. The men and women who go after these drug dealers are doing a noble, but dangerous job—putting their own lives on the line, to protect their communities from the drug traffickers who are profiting from this destruction. – Grady Judd, Sheriff
Among those arrested in these two operations:
• Jemarion Young, 36, Winter Haven. A Florida gang leader, and a drug trafficker of methamphetamine and fentanyl. Young is currently in the Polk County Jail, charged with: Racketeering, Conspiracy to Commit Racketeering, Trafficking in Fentanyl (10 counts), Conspiracy to Traffic Fentanyl (2-counts), Trafficking Methamphetamine (12-counts), Conspiracy to Traffic Methamphetamine (19-counts), Possess Structure/Vehicle for Drug Trafficking, Unlawful Use of 2-Way Communication Device, and Possess/Use Narcotic Paraphernalia.
• Britney Jefferson, 37, Winter Haven.Jefferson is currently in the Polk County Jail with charges of: Conspiracy to Traffic Methamphetamine (8-counts) and Unlawful Use of a 2-Way Communication Device. She is accused of coordinating a delivery of methamphetamine from California to Polk County. Jefferson is the sister of Demarcus and Antonio Jefferson who were both arrested during the PCSO’s Operation Flying Ice in 2022.
• Joshua Puckelwartz, 33, Tampa.Puckelwartz (no longer in custody) is a rapper who calls himself Tommi Boy Wayne. Puckelwartz had numerous communications with Jemarion Young. During a joint operation with FDLE and FHP, Puckelwartz fled from a traffic stop by FHP on January 28, 2026, and crashed on I-275. He was arrested while in possession of about 12 pounds of methamphetamine. He was arrested in Polk County on a Pinellas County warrant for Trafficking in Cocaine.
• Michael Wells, 34, Winter Haven. Wells is currently in the Polk County Jail. Wells is a close associate of Jemarion Young, and would participate in the acquisition of methamphetamine from Puckelwartz. Wells and Jemarion also supplied numerous pounds of methamphetamine to Spencer Leonard, Jr. Michael Wells has been charged with: Trafficking methamphetamine, Conspiracy to Traffic Methamphetamine (17-counts), Racketeering, Conspiracy to Commit Racketeering, Conspiracy to Sell Cocaine, Conspiracy to Sell Marijuana, Unlawful Use of a 2-way Communication Device, Possession of Marijuana over 20 Grams, Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Sell, Possession of a Structure/Vehicle to Sell Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (2-counts).
• Steven Jackson, 32, Lakeland. Jackson is currently in the Polk County Jail with charges for: Armed Trafficking in Amphetamine, Armed Trafficking in Fentanyl, Trafficking in Heroin, Trafficking in Fentanyl (7-counts), Trafficking in Methamphetamine over 200 grams, Racketeering, Conspiracy to Commit Racketeering, Possession of a Firearm by Convicted Felon, Possess Structure/Vehicle for Drug Trafficking, Possession of Alprazolam with Intent to Sell, Unlawful Use of 2-way Communication Device, Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Sell, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Jackson is a gang member, and was identified as a supplier of fentanyl to Jemarion Young.
• Bruce Young, 37, Lakeland. Young is currently not in custody; he has an outstanding Polk County warrant for: Conspiracy to Commit Racketeering, Racketeering, Trafficking in Amphetamine, and Unlawful Use of a 2-Way Communication Device. After serving a 7-year sentence in Florida State Prison for trafficking in methamphetamine, Young was released on November 29, 2025. That same day, he communicated with Jemarion Young about reestablishing contact with his former meth supplier in California to resume selling it.
• Jerell Carr, 35, Lakeland. Carr is currently in the Polk County Jail, on charges of: Trafficking in Fentanyl, Conspiracy to Traffic Methamphetamine (6-counts), Conspiracy to Commit Racketeering, Racketeering, Fleeing to Elude, Fleeing to Elude Causing Injury or Death, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Marijuana over 20 grams, Keep a Public Nuisance Structure for Drug Activity, Unlawful Use of a 2-Way Communication Device, Culpable Negligence Inflicting Harm (2-counts), Culpable Negligence Exposure to Harm (4-counts), Dangerous Excessive Speeding, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Reckless Driving, and Obstruct without Violence. On June 5, 2025, Carr, a gang member, was released from Florida State Prison after serving a 7-year sentence for trafficking methamphetamine. Like Bruce Young, Carr immediately went back to drug dealing. On January 16, 2026, he crashed his car after fleeing from an FHP Trooper in Lakeland. He was arrested and found to be in possession of 52.6 grams of cocaine, 135.2 grams of fentanyl, and 20.2 grams of marijuana.
Do you want a career where you’re set up for success and advancement? How about one where you can share your experience and lead others? If so, then answer the call and join Polk County Fire Rescue.
Photo source Polk County Fire Rescue
Application Process: To be considered for employment with Polk County Fire Rescue, please complete the following steps:
Step 1 – Complete CPAT & FireTEAM Candidates must successfully complete both the Candidate Physical Abilities Test (CPAT) and the FireTEAM assessments. The National Testing Network (NTN) offers both CPAT and FireTEAM. To learn more about CPAT and FireTEAM, and to sign up for testing, go to the National Testing Network website. Tests are offered multiple times a week, including Saturdays. During the registration process, make sure you select Polk County Fire Rescue to receive your test results. Upon completing the CPAT and FireTEAM assessments, your test results will be forwarded to Polk County Fire Rescue.
Step 2 – Submit Your Supporting Documents Legible copies of the documents must be submitted on the National Testing Network. Only applicants who successfully complete these steps will have their scores and documents forwarded to Polk County Fire Rescue for further consideration. Supporting documents required include:
Valid Florida Class E or higher driver license
High-School Diploma or Equivalency Certificate
State of Florida Firefighter Certificate of Compliance
State of Florida EMT-Basic or Paramedic Certificate
CPR or ACLS card
CPAT/Fire Team Certificate
National Incident Management System (NIMS) certifications:
ICS-100: Introduction to the Incident Command System
ICS-200: ICS for Single Resources and Initial Action Incidents
IS-700: National Incident Management System, An Introduction
IS-800: National Response Framework, An Introduction
Emergency Vehicle Operator Course Certification card or a recognized 16-hour course that is equivalent
Proof of vehicle insurance
Driving Requirements:
Have not accrued 12 points within 36 months or 18 points within 48 months
Have not been convicted on alcohol/drug related offenses within 36 months
Have not been convicted of two alcohol/drug related offenses within 10 years
Have not had a suspension, revocation or restriction due to moving violations or alcohol/drug related problem, including failure to take a breath test within the 36 months prior
Have not had two failures to pay fines within 36 month
Have not had two seat belt violations within 36 months
Have not had three lapses of insurance within 36 months
No serious traffic violations such as leaving the scene or driving on a suspended license within 36 months
Additional Information: You must successfully complete the FireTeam and CPAT no more than one year prior to submitting an application. Applications for employment are only accepted during open recruitment. Open recruitment occurs periodically as dictated by operational needs.
Pre-employment Testing Information: Polk County Fire Rescue uses both National Testing Networks and a paramedic exam (paramedics only) for the initial screening tools in the pre-employment process for the positions of:
Firefighter-Paramedic
Firefighter-EMT
Visit the National Testing Network, where you can schedule events. Select the fire icon and click on the applicable position sought with Polk County Fire Rescue. The site will then navigate you through the various components required to schedule an exam.
The smell of slow-smoked barbecue will once again fill the air as the 18th Annual Ribs on the Ridge returns to Lake Eva Park for a full weekend of food, fun and friendly competition.
The two-day, family-friendly festival kicks off Friday, Feb. 20, 2026, from 5 to 9 p.m., and continues Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
This official Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) sanctioned event will feature 32 professional teams and 11 backyard BBQ teams from across the county competing for the coveted Grand Champion title. Adding even more excitement, Ribs on the Ridge will serve as the second leg of the third annual Florida Triple Crown of BBQ, raising the stakes for pitmasters looking to claim statewide bragging rights.
Beyond the competition, attendees can enjoy a full slate of live entertainment throughout the weekend. Performances will include the Micah Madore Trio, Dan Signor Trio, the Blake Free Band and the Outlaw Saints, providing the perfect soundtrack to a weekend of smoky flavors and community celebration.
With activities for all ages, Ribs on the Ridge continues to be a can’t-miss event for barbecue lovers and families alike.
As families across the country continue to process the devastating crash on State Road 60 last week, more details are emerging about two of the four lives lost.
Douglas V. Poole, 68, of Wilmington, Delaware, was among the four people killed in the February 4 multi vehicle crash just east of Lake Wales. Poole was traveling through Florida with his partner, Marian Melasecca Castiglione.
Facebook Photo of Douglas Poole
According to his brother, both Poole and Castiglione were passengers in the Chevrolet Equinox involved in the crash.
Investigators have stated that the Equinox was pushed into oncoming traffic during the chain reaction collision. All four occupants of the Equinox died at the scene.
At this time, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office has not publicly released the names of all victims involved. However, Poole’s family, contacted Daily Ridge seeking additional information about video footage that captured the collision.
2024 Facebook Photo of Douglas Poole & Marian Melasecca Castiglione
In his message, they said his brother and Castiglione had just returned from a cruise to Cozumel (believed to be The Big Easy 2026 Cruise) and were driving across Florida from Fort Lauderdale, ultimately heading toward New Orleans. The driver and another passenger in the Equinox were believed to be from Port St. Lucie.
Douglas Poole grew up in Wilmington and graduated from the University of Delaware with a degree in music composition. After years working in retail, he returned to his passion for music, playing piano for senior living communities throughout the Wilmington area.
He leaves behind two daughters, two stepsons, several grandchildren, and three brothers.
The February 4 collision involved five vehicles and eleven people. Several others were transported to area hospitals. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine what led to the sequence of events on SR 60.
For one family in Delaware and others connected to those involved, what began as a vacation ended in tragedy on a Polk County highway.
Daily Ridge will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
If you’re looking to unwind with great tunes and local talent, Winter Haven has a packed lineup of live music over the next week. From laid-back acoustic sets to lively weekend performances, there’s something happening nearly every night.
Sage Cocktail Lounge hosts Sage Sessions every Tuesday evening, featuring live music in an intimate lounge setting. Guests are encouraged to check the venue’s flyer for weekly artist details.
Want Your Music Featured?
If you’re a musician and would like Winter Haven Daily to highlight your upcoming shows around Winter Haven, email your schedule to [email protected].
The PCSO Traffic Homicide Investigations Unit is investigating a two-vehicle crash that resulted in the death of one of the drivers. The crash occurred at approximately 8:05 p.m. on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, on Church Ave near Carter Road in Mulberry.
According to evidence and witness statements, a dump truck was hauling millings from the road construction taking place on Church Ave. The dump truck was conducting a U-turn from southbound Church Ave onto northbound Church Ave. After completing the turn into the outside lane, a 2004 Chevrolet Suburban approached from behind in the same lane. The dump truck attempted to swerve to the left, at which time the right side of the Suburban impacted the left rear of the truck.
Upon impact, the right side of the Suburban was torn off and the vehicle began rotating clockwise as it continued northwest. The Suburban spun into the median, flipped, and the driver was ejected from the vehicle. The vehicle came to a rest approximately 80 feet from the point of impact. The dump truck came to a controlled stop on the east shoulder of the roadway.
The driver of the Suburban was not wearing a seat belt and no airbags deployed in his vehicle.
Upon arrival of first responders, the driver was found conscious and alert with what appeared to be non-life threatening injuries. It was learned that nearby construction workers had helped free him after he became partially trapped under the vehicle. He was transported to a local hospital where his condition declined rapidly and he succumbed to his injuries.
There were no indicators of impairment on the part of the dump truck driver but an odor of alcohol was detected on the Suburban driver at the scene prior to transport. The investigation remains ongoing.
Born in Gainesville, Florida, to John Kelly Kennedy and Margaret Hoffses Kennedy.
She grew up in Winter Haven, attended public schools, and graduated from Winter Haven High School in 2000. She earned her AA degree from Polk Community College and her LPN certification in 2015 from Traviss Vocational School in Lakeland. She was a lifelong member of First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven.
She worked at AdventHealth Bond Clinic in Winter Haven, in Dr. Kenaan’s Obstetrics & Gynecology office.
She was preceded in death by her son, John Clifton Skipper; her father, John K. Kennedy; her grandparents, William J. and Josephine Derryberry Hoffses; her paternal grandparents, Robert L. and Marjorie Janet Sparkman Kennedy; her aunt, Jeanne K. Miller; and her uncle, Robert L. Kennedy.
Mary Alice was named after her maternal great-grandmother, Mary Alice Turrentine Derryberry.
She is survived by her daughter, Emma Grace Skipper; her sisters, Kathryn Ann Kennedy of Tampa and Patricia Kennedy Varnes (Beau); her nephews, James and Jaxson, of Georgia; and Megan Anne Kennedy. Her mother, Margaret Hoffses Kennedy. Her aunts include Josephine “Auntie Jo” Hoffses Miller (David) of Auburndale and Jan K. Chambers (John) of Temple Terrace, along with an uncle, George Curren Miller, Jr., of Lake Alfred, and many cousins.
Mary Alice’s final act of kindness was the gift of life through organ donation.
An honor walk was held at Lakeland Regional Medical Center.
A memorial service will be held on February 28 at 2 pm at First Presbyterian Church, 637 6th Street NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881, officiated by Dr. Steven R. Negley.
The family requests donations to First Presbyterian Church, 637 6th Street NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881, rather than flowers.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Beverly McPhee on January 23, 2026, at the age of 89. Beverly, born on January 10, 1937, was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who touched the lives of many with her kindness and gentle spirit.
For many years, Beverly dedicated herself to her career as a custodian for Frito Lay, where her work ethic and dedication were deeply appreciated by her colleagues. She was not only known for her professional contributions but also for her generosity of spirit. Beverly always made time for others, whether she was reading a good book, engaging in crafts, or playing her favorite card games, especially Shanghai Rummy. She enjoyed bowling and painting furniture with creativity and love, often crafting items that would become family treasures. Beverly’s warmth and thoughtful nature resonated with everyone who knew her.
A kind and considerate person, she had a unique ability to make those around her feel valued and loved. Beverly leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories and an enduring impact on her family and friends. Though her presence will be profoundly missed, her spirit will live in the hearts of those she touched.
Beverly was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Michael McPhee; her dear brother, Bill; sister-in-law, Nancy; and multiple in laws on Michael’s side. She is survived by her sons, Mark (Renee), Kevin (Sandra); daughters, Marie, Beth (Gary), Kathy (Dave), Barbara (Chuck), and Vicky (Gary), as well as thirteen cherished grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immeasurable joy to her life. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
The City of Winter Haven is looking to expand its workforce and is now hiring for several positions across a variety of departments. City officials are encouraging dedicated individuals seeking meaningful public service careers to apply.
Current openings include:
Traffic Signal Technician
This position is responsible for maintaining, installing, and repairing traffic signals and control devices to ensure safe and efficient travel throughout the city. Duties include troubleshooting signal equipment, lighting systems, and controllers both in the field and in the shop. The technician also responds to signal malfunctions and emergencies to quickly restore proper operation.
Irrigation Specialist II
The Irrigation Specialist II installs, maintains, and repairs irrigation systems and components to promote efficient water use and high-quality landscaping. Responsibilities include conducting routine inspections, troubleshooting issues, programming systems to meet site-specific needs, reading blueprints, operating tools and equipment, and upgrading irrigation systems at multiple city locations.
Crew Leader I – Water Department
This leadership role involves overseeing a utility crew responsible for maintaining and repairing the city’s water, sewer, and lift station systems. The Crew Leader operates equipment such as backhoes, loaders, pumps, and generators to complete installations and repairs. The position also requires interpreting plans, maintaining records, and communicating service updates with customers and staff.
Code Compliance Officer I or II
The Code Compliance Officer conducts field inspections to identify and enforce violations of city ordinances related to zoning, housing, sanitation, and neighborhood standards. The role includes engaging with property owners and the public to resolve code issues, educating residents on regulations, and promoting community improvement. The officer also compiles case documentation and presents findings to the Special Magistrate or in court when compliance is not voluntarily met.
City officials say these positions offer the opportunity to “come grow with us” while serving the Winter Haven community.
Those interested in applying can learn more about current openings and submit applications online at MyWinterHaven.com/Jobs.
